2019 Alto Adige Pinot Grigio - Kellerei Cantina Kurtatsch

Lime peel, almond skin, crunchy Anjou pear. Honeydew melon, crushed rocks, squeezed lemon. A delightfully pure and energetic assemblage of grapefruit pith, ripe green apple, and white peach shines with surprisingly deep and expressive luster as fresh floral notes of orchard blossom, honeysuckle, and chamomile gently provide a layer of pretty yet understated aromatics. Hints of oregano and thyme soon emerge within a range of fresh herbal tones that are playfully present alongside interesting and slightly bitter suggestions of raw tree nuts. Impressions of rocky soil and cold stones round out the display in a wonderfully earthy finish laden with pristine mineral undertones. Unexpectedly complex, fragrant, and forward on the nose with a palate that is spunky and spirited yet still beautifully concentrated; exhibiting excellent ripeness, weight, and texture while remaining perfectly fresh, balanced, and lively. Medium plus in body and supported by nicely elevated acidity. This 2019 Alto Adige Pinot Grigio by Kellerei Cantina Kurtatsch is a deliciously characterful and intriguing white from Northern Italy.

Located in the foothills of the Italian Alps not far from the Austrian border, Alto Adige is a mountainous and incredibly picturesque winegrowing region well known for producing Italy's greatest expressions of Pinot Grigio. This bottling, crafted by Kellerei Cantina Kurtatsch using Pinot Grigio sourced from east facing vines planted as high as 2000ft above sea level in Alto Adige Südtirol, showcases this well known international grape in its deepest and purest form. Shaped in a ripe and concentrated yet still energetic style, this wine surprisingly jumps from the glass with citrus-driven aromatics bolstered by fresh floral tones, mildly bitter herbal charm, and wonderful stoney minerality. Though very serious and exceptionally well made this still possesses plenty of lighthearted liveliness and verve, and certainly makes for a terrifically fun and food friendly drinking experience. Excellent.